Volhynian Tragedy: Why Historical Dialogue with Poland Shapes Policy

Volhynian Tragedy and Ukrainian-Polish Relations

According to Главком: The Volhynian tragedy remains one of the most complex issues in the relations between Ukraine and Poland. This event, which took place in 1943, forms the basis of the historical dialogue between the two countries, particularly due to the position of the Polish side and the consequences of Russian interference. Professor Bohdan Hudy notes that academic positions are increasingly defined by political decisions.

In 2017, the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory (UINP) imposed a moratorium on the exhumation of the bodies of the victims of the Volhynian tragedy. This step sparked various reactions in society, as the issue of exhumation is sensitive in the context of Ukrainian-Polish relations. However, in 2019, after Volodymyr Zelensky was elected president, the moratorium was lifted. This step opened new opportunities for studying history and finding compromises between the two countries.

Political Aspect of the Volhynian Tragedy

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk declared in 2017 a 'breakthrough' regarding the exhumation of the victims of the Volhynian tragedy, highlighting the political aspect of this issue. At the same time, according to Professor Hudy,

“the tone in this discussion is definitely set by the Polish side”

. He also points out that 'this figure lacks scientific justification' regarding the number of victims, as the generally accepted figure is 120,000. However, to appear even more patriotic, some representatives talk about 130,000 victims.

Thus, the Volhynian tragedy becomes an important link in the Ukrainian-Polish dialogue, emphasizing that politics and history are interconnected. Accordingly, the issues of memory and reconciliation require serious scientific justification to avoid manipulations by politicians.

The Volhynian tragedy, as a complex element of the history of both countries, continues to affect modern relations between Ukraine and Poland. Lifting the moratorium on the exhumation of the victims' bodies may mark a new stage in the search for mutual understanding and reconciliation; however, it is important to maintain objectivity in research and consider the sensitivity of the topic. Proper scientific research of history will help avoid the use of the past for political purposes, which, in turn, may promote a more constructive dialogue between the societies of both states.